Koenji’s Little Chinese Diner That Absolutely Slaps
- Alex
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Kaichan is one of those places you could walk past a hundred times without noticing, but once you step inside, it instantly becomes your new go-to.
I'd been saving this spot to eat with Sebby once he arrived back into Tokyo. My excitement level was high, let me tell ya!
A Tiny Spot With Big Energy
A tiny Chinese diner in Koenji, about a five-minute walk from the station, with maybe eight to ten counter seats wrapped around an open kitchen. One chef runs the show, backed by a couple girls - one on the floor and another in the kitchen and the three of them handle the kitchen chaos like it’s nothing!
What comes out of that little kitchen might be the best Chinese food in Tokyo. Honestly, it may be the best Chinese food I’ve ever had.
And that’s coming from someone with a Chinese grandmother who's cooking does not miss!
The Food That Won My Heart
The egg fried rice is non-negotiable. Sebby and I each had our own. At 800 yen per serve, it feels illegal. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly balanced, fluffy, golden, layeredddd, and cooked with so much skill you can literally taste the culinary expertise. Best fried rice of my life.
The pork and ginger? Unreal. The slightly sweet pork is cooked to perfection. The whole dish is balanced by a big mound of shredded cabbage and a smooth and naughty white sauce that just brings everything together.
Then, we have the bean sprouts, chives and pork. This dish is salty, peppery, packed with vegetables, and the kind of plate you keep picking food off even when you’re full.
Lastly, the mapo tofu… wow. Silky tofu, thick glossy sauce loaded with minced meat. A touch of sweetness, and a proper chilli kick. (I added more chilli oil, fyi I advise against this lol).
Five Out of Five. No Notes.
Taste is an easy five out of five. No hesitation.
The atmosphere is loud, lively, slightly cramped, and just perfect. Weird little stickers all over the walls, Japanese and Western punk rock playing, people drinking, carrying on, and slurping noodles. The chef tossing pans like he’s in a cooking anime. Five out of five.
And the value? Potetially a six, if that's even comprehendable. Kaichan is a hidden gem serving world-class Chinese food at everyday prices. I walked out genuinely blown away. We ate a total of 5 plates for 4000 yen and some change!!
If you’re anywhere near Koenji, go. Just, go.
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